Gospel artistes in Nigeria have
often complained that the pulpit ministry is taking the shine off the singing
ministry, which many have said would be the only relevant activity in heaven.
In an interview with Onimole Rotimi Michael, popularly known as Oba Ara, he
discussed his career and issues concerning gospel artistes in the country with
How did you begin your journey into
music and when?
The Journey began through a vision
and a divine calling in the year 1996. God’s servant, Rev. Dr. Abereoje of the
Christ Love Evangelistic Church, Biola, Ketu, Lagos, was instrumental to this.
I was an instrumentalist who had a passion for singing before the Lord fully
took over me and since then, it has been from glory to glory.
Do you think gospel music has come
of age in Nigeria?
Gospel music has come of age in
Nigeria in the sense that many people choose it as a carrier and it has in a
way changed the face of music in the country. Gospel music has inspired many to
know their calling and vision from God.
Some people have criticised gospel artistes
today for uninspiring lyrics, do you think they are right or what do you think
is responsible?
There is an adage which says rumours
are carried by fools and spread by ignorant people. The Bible says, “By their
fruits, you shall know them.” I can say that they are not right, because if
they carefully listen to every lyric of the song, they will understand what the
music is all about, and if the lyrics are not inspiring, that means there is
something wrong somewhere. That is why the Bible says, “For those who are led
by the spirit are called the Sons of God.” It is therefore expedient for an
individual to be sensitive in the spirit when composing songs.
How many albums have you done so far
and have you bagged any awards?
By the grace of God, I have been
able to produce my first album titled “OBA ARA,” in the year 2010 which
brought about my stage name, and my second album, Beautiful Testimony (Eri
to rewa), in 2013. I have an award from TEKAAB Musical organisation.
Some Gospel artistes do name their
prices before ministering. Do you think this is right?
For me, I will say it is not right
and at the same time, it is right because the Bible says, “Seeth though a man
diligent in his work, he shall stand before Kings and not mere men.” The
reason I said it is not right is that the Bible also says in the book of Psalms
that “let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” The talent is given
freely, so it should be used freely also. But since that is his own main
profession and the Bible also says that you shall eat from your sweat, it very
necessary to collect money even before ministering, because it is not good for
a gospel artiste to finish ministration and be asking for money. It is good, as
I said earlier, before the ministration.
In what ways would you suggest
churches should encourage gospel artistes?
Churches should try and encourage
gospel artistes by recognising their presence and also encourage them with
honorarium. This is because if a pastor invites a gospel artiste, who did not
make a demand, such pastor should prepare a honorarium for his guest artiste.
What advice do you have for young
people coming into the profession?
My advice is that they should try to
be themselves. They should not pretend, they should always pray and ask God for
direction. They should respect others and honour the men of God. Young people
coming into the profession must know how to sacrifice and be concerned about
the welfare of others.
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